Toquerville Falls

With afternoon temperatures expected to reach into the 90s today, we decided it was the perfect day for a high-altitude off-road adventure in Southern Utah.

Our neighbors Sharon and Fred are fellow Jeep enthusiasts. When they learned about a 12-mile round-trip off-road trail nearby, they invited us to come along. Of course, we said "Yes!" We headed to the nearby town of Toquerville and found the trail head. Before we knew it we were off the road and heading uphill.

Our destination was Toquerville Falls. Looking around this Southern Utah desert, it was hard to believe we would find anything that resembled a waterfall out here. The trail was a bit rocky and washboard-like in some spots, but it wasn't too bad.

The scenery along the way was gorgeous. In the distance we could see the striking colors of the Kolob Canyons area of Zion National Park.

We climbed some 2,300 feet and were relieved to feel the temperatures cool off nicely. Finally, off in the distance, we caught our first glimpse of Toquerville Falls.

Just after we arrived at the falls, we watched a couple of four-wheelers cross LaVerkin Creek just above the falls from the trail on the other side. We were tempted, but that Jeep is a lot more gnarly than either of ours.

At the top of the falls, the water was deep and fast. And, the drop off was a steep 12-feet or so. With a deep hole or two along the surface, we affirmed our decision not to cross.

Before leaving the falls, Paul and Fred pose for a quick photo with two very dirty Jeeps. Our visit was cut short by a swarm of nasty, biting gnats. Sharon and I made a beeline for the Jeeps and the boys followed.

On the way back down the trail, we stopped to find a geocache. The gnats were awful, but Paul managed to make a quick find.

Sharon and Fred were all smiles at the end of the trail. Despite the nasty gnats, a good time was had by all. From here, our neighbors made a dash to the local car wash. Rocky, on the other hand, is still sporting a pretty solid coating of red Utah dirt.

Thanks, neighbors, for a great ride!